Ecosystem Dynamics and Climate Change Impacts

In this video, Brian from the Scientist in Every Florida School Program introduces Dr. Pravin Suvedi, a postdoctoral research associate at the University of Florida. Dr. Suvedi discusses his research on the impact of grassland management and climate change on soil microbial processes and greenhouse gas emissions. He explains how climate change affects ecosystems, including changes in phenology, species adaptation, and disruptions in food webs. Examples include migratory birds, boreal forests, and polar bears. The video concludes with a discussion on the emergence of diseases and pests due to climate change.

What is the main focus of the Scientist in Every Florida School Program?

• To provide students with hands-on laboratory experience

• To teach students about marine biology

• To focus on the history of science

• To connect students with scientists to learn about ecosystem sciences

What is Dr. Pravin Suvedi's research primarily concerned with?

• The development of new agricultural techniques

• The study of plant genetics

• The effect of grassland management on soil microbial processes

• The impact of climate change on marine life

How does climate change affect phenology in ecosystems?

• It only affects plant life

• It alters the timing of life events for species

• It has no effect on phenology

• It causes species to migrate later in the year

What is an example of asynchronous adaptation due to climate change?

• All species adapting at the same rate

• Fish migrating to warmer waters

• Migratory birds arriving when food is not yet available

• Plants blooming earlier than usual

What is one way climate change can lead to habitat loss?

• By replacing tundra ecosystems with boreal forests

• By decreasing the amount of sunlight

• By causing species to migrate southward

• By increasing the number of predators

How does the reduction of ice caps affect polar bears?

• It reduces the algae that drive their food chain

• It has no impact on them

• It makes them migrate to warmer areas

• It increases their food supply

What role does algae play in the Arctic ecosystem?

• It has no significant role

• It is a primary food source for polar bears

• It drives the food chain on ice sheets

• It provides shelter for fish

What has led to the increase in mountain pine beetle populations?

• An increase in rainfall

• An increase in low winter minimum temperatures

• A reduction in forest areas

• A decrease in their natural predators

What is a cascading effect in ecosystems?

• A decrease in ecosystem productivity

• A direct impact on a single species

• A series of changes triggered by an initial change

• An increase in biodiversity

How does climate change contribute to the emergence of new diseases?

• By decreasing temperatures

• By reducing the number of host species

• By eliminating natural barriers

• By increasing the survival rate of pests